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BEST PRIMARY 
RECITATIONS 



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CHICAGO 






































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BEST 

PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


OVER TWO HUNDRED ORIGINAL 
RECITATIONS AND EXERCISES 
FOR FIRST AND SECOND GRADES 


BY 

WINIFRED A. HOAG 

ii 




BECKLEY-CARDY COMPANY 

CHICAGO 









Copyright, 1915, by 
BECKLEY-CARDY COMPANY 


All Rights Reserved 



©CLA4113U3 


SEP -I 1915 

"Ms* l • 




CONTENTS 


PIECES 

FOR 

EVERY DAY 


PAGE 


PAGE 

Answer, An. 

. 21 

Last and Least. 

. . 15 

Baby’s Flowers. 

. 14 

Little Weather-Man, 

A 21 

Best of All, The. . . . 

. 11 

Magic Sound, The. . 

.. 15 

Better Way, A. 

. 10 

Misery Loves Com¬ 


Birthday Thought, A 

. 12 

pany . 

. . 10 

Brightest Light, The. 

. 10 

Misfortune, A. 

. . 18 

Child’s Idea, A. . 4. . . 

. 24 

Mother’s Love. 

. . 11 

Comparison, A. 

. 20 

Mother’s Turn. 

. . 24 

Difference of Opinion 

. 25 

Mystery Solved, A. 

. . 19 

Disappointment, A . . 

. 10 

New Method, A. . . . 

. . 19 

Discouraged . 

. 11 

Not Appropriate . . . 

. . 13 

Drawback, A. 

. 9 

Not So Bad. 

. . 9 

Dumb Animals. 

. 12 

Odd, Indeed. 

. . 15 

Finger Story, A. 

. 12 

One Advantage .... 

. . 17 

First Day, The. 

. 14 

One Exception. 

. . 16 

Good Examples. 

. 19 

One Playmate. 

. . 23 

Good Friend, A. 

. 10 

Optimist, An. 

. . 12 

Good Plan, A. 

. 13 

Practice Does n’t 


Greetings. 

. 22 

Make Perfect. . . . 

. . 15 

Guess. 

. 18 

Puzzler, A. 

. . 14 

Hard Task, A. 

. 14 

Queer Papa, A. 

. . 22 

I’d Like to Be. 

26 

Question, A. 

. . 9 

Labor Question, A. . . . 

. 13 

Scholar, A. 

. . 20 


3 







































CONTENTS 


4 


PAGE 


PAGE 

Sleepy-Head, A. 17 

Sweet Tooth, A. . . 

...17 

Song of the Shell, The 23 

Tit for Tat. 

. . . 14 

Source of Trouble, A. . 11 

Warning, A. 

. . . 16 

Student, A. 11 

Wise Thought, A. . 

. . . 12 

Sweet Dream, A. 13 

Wish, A. 

. . . 21 


i 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 


Alas for Dolly. 

29 

Opinions Differ. 

34 

Best Friend, The. 

31 

Papa’s Girl. 

28 

Contrast, The. 

35 

Penalty, The. 

29 

Difference of Opinion. 

33 

Poor Dolly. 

37 

Dollies. 

34 

Poor May. 

28 

Economy . 

29 

Prettiest Eyes, The. . . 

36 

Excuse, An. 

33 

Same Doll, The. 

28 

Gift, A. 

30 

Style . 

32 

Good Example, A. . . . 

29 

Stylish. 

37 

Good Friend, A. 

31 

Substitute, A. 

37 

Hard Luck. 

36 

Successful Mother, A. 

31 

Her Choice. 

27 

Timely Suggestion, A. 

30 

Just Me. 

38 

Too Busy. 

33 

Lady of Title, A. 

27 

Wise Edith. 

30 

Mamma’s Girl ....... 

27 

Young Cook, A. 

35 

Modern Fairies. 

30 

Young Housekeeper, A 

35 

Old Friends Are Best. 

32 

Young M. D., A. 

28 

pieces : 

FOR BOYS 


Almost a Man. 

42 

Best, The. 

39 

Ambition . 

48 

Best of All, The. 

39 

Bedtime Bravery. 

41 

Billy’s Plan. 

39 










































CONTENTS 


5 


PAGE 

PAGE 

Boy’s Conclusion, A. . . 

41 

Good Prospect, A. . . . 

40 

Boy’s Wish, A. 

40 

Hard Luck. 

43 

Boy Wanted. 

46 

His Choice. 

41 

Brave Boy, A. 

49 

His Opinion. 

42 

Busy Boy, A. 

45 ' 

His Very Own. 

50 

Contradiction, A. 

41 

Knowledge . 

43 

Different View-Points. 

44 

One Exception. 

46 

Don’t . 

48 

Reformer, A.40, 

48 

Dreadful Possibility, A 

47 

Rivalry . 

42 

Expert, An. 

47 

Ted’s Choice. 

45 

Explanation, The. 

46 

Tell-Tale, The. 

44 

Family Doctor, The. . 

50 

Too Much of a Good 


Family Resemblance. . 

44 

Thing. 

42 

Father’s Helper. 

40 

Unhappy Age, An. . . . 

43 

Fisherman, A. 

40 

Young Diplomat, A. . . 

39 

Good Investment, A. . 

49 

Young Financier, A. . . 

43 

PIECES FOR THANKSGIVING 


Bobby’s Decision. 

54 

Thankful Boy, A. 

52 

Day After, The. 

51 

Thankless Children. . . 

53 

Great Convenience, A. 

51 

Thanksgiving . 

56 

Jamie’s Lesson. 

52 

Thanksgiving Is Best. 

54 

Papa’s Share. 

53 

Truly Thankful. 

52 

Surprise, A. 

51 

We Thank Thee. 

55 

Thankful. 

51 



PIECES FOR 

CHRISTMAS 



Alteration, An. . 
Best of All, The 


64 Child’s Hardship, A. . 62 
58 Christmas Tree, The. . 61 



































6 


CONTENTS 


PAGE 

PAGE 

Comforting Thought, A 

60 

Resolution, A. 

57 

Considerate Boy, A. . . 

58 

Santa at Home. 

65 

Day for All, The, .... 

58 

Santa’s Abode. 

66 

Dreadful Threat, A. . . 

62 

Santa’s Helpers— The 


Holly Tree, The. 

60 

Fairies . 

70 

How Could I Tell. ... 

63 

Santa’s Helpers— The 


In Danger. 

57 

Brownies . 

71 

Jack Frost’s Tree. .. . 

64 

Santa’s Present. 

67 

King’s Birthday, The. 

65 

Shrewd Choice, A. . . . 

63 

Lament, A. 

57 

Solution, A. 

63 

Lassie’s Wishes. 

69 

Waiting . 

57 

Long Ago. 

59 

Warning, A. 

61 

Modest Desire, A. . . . 

61 

Watching for Santa. . . 

68 

One Exception. 

59 

Why. 

58 

One Time, The. 

59 



PIECES FOR 

SPECIAL DAYS 


Boy’s Patriotism, A. . . 

74 

New Year. 

73 

Cupid’s Messenger . . . 

74 

Offer, An. 

73 

Five Guesses. 

77 

Small Patriots. 

75 

Labor Day. 

73 

Trees, The. 

76 

Mav Day. 

75 

Washington’s Birthday 

74 

Months, The. 

78 

What a Boy May Be. . 

74 

PIECES ON NATURE 


Airships. 

82 

Buttercups . 

81 

Autumn . 

82 

Contrasts. 

87 

Awakening, The. 

85 

Daisy, The. 

82 

Better Plan, A. 

82 

Jack Frost’s Friends. . 

83 



































CONTENTS 


7 


PAGE 


Jewels . 84 

Katy-did . 81 

Little Artist, A. 81 

Plan for Winter, A. . . 83 

Shower, A. 86 

Signs of Spring. 86 

Song of Summer, A. . . 84 
Spring Suits. 85 


PAGE 

Spring Thought, A. . . 87 


Spring-Time . 85 

Sweet Message, A. . . . 86 

Ted’s Mistake. 88 

Tom’s Choice. 84 

Whip-poor-will . 81 

Winds, The. 85 

Wool Preferred. 82 













































t 





















Best Primary Recitations 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


A QUESTION 

If you had a piece to speak 

And did n’t remember what to say, 
What could you do but sit right down? 

I think I shall — good day ! 

NOT SO BAD 

I was awful ’fraid to speak — 

But it’s lots of fun! 

First thing you know, you’ve started; 
Next thing you know, you’ve done. 

A DRAWBACK 

Behind my ear I put my pencil, 

My pen I take and hold it tight, 

I make the selfsame scratchy noises, 
But the folks can’t read what I write! 




BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


A BETTER WAY 

When I am big, I think I ’ll keep 
A little candy store; 

And instead of “Where’s your penny?” 

I ’ll say “ Please take some more! ” 

THE BRIGHTEST LIGHT 

The electric light is brightest, 

I’ve often heard it said; 

But I know of something brighter — 

The stars, when I bumped my head! 

A DISAPPOINTMENT 

I thought, when babies came, 

That they were always new; 

But ours has lost his teeth, 

And his hair is worn off too. 

MISERY LOVES COMPANY 

I’d just hate nasty medicine, 

If it weren’t for Sister Grace. 

It’s worth taking my own dose, 

To see her make a face! 

A GOOD FRIEND 

When I ask the folks to play with me, 

They say, “ Yes, dear, when my work is done.” 
But old Rover barks right off, 

“All right, let’s go for a run!” 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


11 


MOTHER’S LOVE 
Most of the folks seem to like me 
When I’m dressed up and clean ; 

But mother likes me not only then, 

But all the times between. 

A SOURCE OF TROUBLE 

They say Cousin Ned is so good! 

And learns his lessons so well! 

But — 

That boy gets me into more trouble 
Than I can begin to tell! 

THE BEST OF ALL 
From the north to the south, 

From the east to the west, 

My mamma’s the sweetest, 

My papa’s the best. 

A STUDENT 
I have a dozen sharp pencils, 

A primer and a rule — 

I’m sure I ’ll always get “ hundreds ” 

When I start going to school. 

[Holds articles mentioned well in view] 

DISCOURAGED 

I wash and wash and wash my hands, 

Till sometimes I think, oh dear! 

I’d be glad to wash one whole day 
If then I could quit a year. 


12 BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 

DUMB ANIMALS 
Our old tabby had a concert, 

And Rover a party, last night; 

I think calling them dumb animals 
Is very far from right. 

AN OPTIMIST 

They all tell you such fine stories, 

And give you such good things to eat, 

That it seems just like a party, 

And being sick cannot be beat. 

A FINGER STORY 

An army of ten little soldiers, 

Ten little servants to do my work — 

Ten little soldiers must learn to obey, 

Ten little servants must learn not to shirk. 

[Hands, with outstretched fingers held up, with palms toward 
audience] 


A WISE THOUGHT 
Grandpa gave me a bank, 

Just like sister Jenny’s — 

Guess I ’d better save nickels, 

For I get mostly pennies. 

A BIRTHDAY" THOUGHT 
Only yesterday I was seven — 

But I am growing fine! 

To-day’s my birthday and I’m eight,— 
Pretty soon I’ll be nine! 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


13 


A GOOD PLAN 

Since I have had my little piece, 

I guess I’ve had to say 

It over and over and over 
’Most seventy times a day. 

But now I’m getting pretty tired, 

And do n’t know what to do. 

I guess I’d best forget that piece — 

Say, don’t you? 

A SWEET DREAM 

Right soon after I went to sleep last night, 

I had such a lovely dream — 

I was using a snow-shovel for a spoon 

And the snow was all ICE CREAM! 

A LABOR QUESTION 

They always make little folks speak, 
While the big folks sit and stare. 

Now, if you * should do the hard work, 
Wouldn’t it be much more fair? 

[*roints down at audience] 

NOT APPROPRIATE 

“ Come, Will, the early bird catches the worm,” 
Father always says, when he calls me; 

But I can’t see what difference that makes,. 

For I’m not a bird, you see. 


14 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


THE FIRST DAY 

The first day I went to school, 

I fell asleep quite soon; 

And ’fore long teacher waked me, 

And said that it was noon. 

A HARD TASK 

It’s easy for big folks to be good, 

(And if they aren’t, no one can scold). 
But it’s just awful hard to be good, 
When you’re only five years old! 

TIT FOR TAT 

When the big folks begin to whisper, 
They always tell me to run away. 

I think it would sometimes come handy, 

If 1 could send them off to play. 

A PUZZLER 

I ’ll tell you one of the things 
That I’ve never understood — 

Why is it so easy to be bad, 

And so hard to be good? 

BABY’S FLOWERS 

Roses are in our baby’s cheeks, 

And violets in her eyes; 

The tulips are her dear little mouth, 
The forget-me-nots are her cries. 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


15 


ODD, INDEED! 

Mother is always hunting dirt, 

On the windows and the floors. 

It seems queer to hunt in the house 
When there is so much outdoors. 

LAST AND LEAST 

(For a very small child) 

My piece is as small as I am, 

But, being last, that is all right — 

We thank you for coming to hear us, 

And now wish you all 44 Good-Night!” 

PRACTICE DOESN’T MAKE PERFECT 

I’ve said my piece ’most a thousand times, 

To Auntie Nell and Uncle Ned; 

I’ve said it early in the morning, 

And just before I went to bed. 

Why — I can’t remember it now! 

I guess I ’ll make my little bow. 

[Last lines hurriedly] 

THE MAGIC SOUND 

George never hears his mother, 

When she asks him to bring wood. 

He never hears his grandma, 

When she tells him to be good. 


16 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


He never hears his teacher speak — 
And, indeed, I can tell 
Only one thing that he hears, 

And that’s the dinner-bell! 


ONE EXCEPTION 

They told me to stand up straight, 
And how to hold my hands, 

And said, “ Speak up loudly, Jimmy, 
So every one understands.” 

They told me over and over; 

I practiced it each day, 

And haven’t forgotten a thing — 
Except what I was to say. 

A WARNING 

Our kitty has a wee bell, 

That’s tied on a ribbon blue, 

So wherever kitty goes, 

A tinkling noise goes too. 


And, if our jam disappears 
(As of late it seems to do), 
Mother says that I must wear 
A bell on a ribbon too. 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


17 


A SWEET TOOTH 

I’d like some bread with sugar,— 

Lots and lots to make it white, 

So it crunches in your mouth, 
Whenever you take a bite. 

But, if the bread should be stale, 

Or, if it’s too much trouble, 

You needn’t mind ’bout the bread, 

Just make the sugar double. 

ONE ADVANTAGE 

I’m the oldest of us children, 

And it’s awful hard on me. 

They always expect so much of you, 

When you’re the oldest, don’t you see? 

But, though there are hard things about it, 
It’s not as bad as you’d suppose. 

There is one thing that makes up for it — 
I never wear “ handed-down ” clothes. 

A SLEEPY-HEAD 

When I get sleepy after supper, 

I shut one eye and then the other, 
And bite my tongue to keep awake, 

And go to bed late, like big brother. 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


But, sometimes both my eyes get sticky, 
And then, you see, “ bob” goes my head, 
And nary a thing do I know, 

Till mamma calls, “ Get out of bed ! 99 


GUESS 

We have something at our house 
That’s soft and rosy and small. 

I really don’t believe 

It’s more than just so tall. 

[Shows with hands] 

It sleeps and sleeps all day. 

Did you say a baby ? Why, yes. 

Of course it is a baby, 

But how did you ever guess? 

A MISFORTUNE 

Some folks are very lucky,— 

Just like my cousin, Jim — 

Whatever’t is that comes around, 

It never misses him. 

But 7 am so unlucky, 

7 cannot catch a thing, 

And never miss a school-day, 

In winter, fall, or spring. 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


19 


THE MYSTERY SOLVED 

They say baby was an angel, 

But she can’t talk or walk about. 

It used to seem quite queer, 

But now I’ve thought it out. 

It’s ’cause the angels always sing, 
That’s why she cannot talk. 

It’s ’cause they’re always flying, 
That’s why she cannot walk. 

A NEW METHOD 

I do not mind reading and writing, 

And I like numbers pretty well, 

But I always have an awful time 
When I try to learn to spell. 

So I taught my lesson to kitty, 

Though she couldn’t have understood; 
But, I guess it helped kitty’s teacher, 

For my paper came back marked “ good.” 

GOOD EXAMPLES 

They’ve told me how the pussy-cat 
Always washes her face, 

And how the chicken, looking up, 

Never forgets its grace. 


20 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


And how the birds all get up early, 
Until it makes me mad. 

I’m sure the reason why they We good, 
Is ’cause they can W be bad. 


A COMPARISON 

My little kitty can walk, 

And my little puppy, too; 

And even though they ’re babies, 
Give a tiny bark and mew. 

But little baby brother 

Does nothing but eat and grow. 

I really hate to think it — 

But I’m afraid our baby’s slow! 


A SCHOLAR 

When I was a little fellow, 

A very long time ago, 

I had to study in the primer 
Little, easy words like “ so.” 

But now I’m big and do not read 
About “ dog ” and “ cat ” and 64 cow,” 
I’ve learned almost all there is to learn — 
I’m in first reader now! 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


A WISH 

Sometimes I wish I might be big, 

Like mamma and Aunt Sue, 

And, then again, I’d be little — 

I think that’d be fine, do n’t you ? 

In the mornings, when there was work to do, 
I’d be little and not work at all; 

But in the afternoons, when all was done, 
I’d go out and make a call. 

AN ANSWER 

Once I asked a little bee 
Where he got his honey, 

And why he kept on working 
When it was hot and sunny; 

And what he did in winter. 

But he wouldn’t say a thing, 

And the answer that he gave me 
Was just a horrid sting. 

A LITTLE WEATHER MAN 

Teacher says that sunshine 
Is no better than the showers, 

That both the sun and rain 
Are needed for the flowers. 


22 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


Of course, it must be true, 

For she is almost always right; 
But I’d like the sun for daytime 
And the showers to wait till night. 

A QUEER PAPA 

The jolly old sun is their father, 

And their mother the silvery moon, 
And after the sunset fades, 

The star children come out soon. 

But do n’t you think he’s a queer father, 
To forever keep running away, 
Whenever his wife and children 
Come into the sky to stay? 


GREETINGS 

The buttercups among the grass 
Say “ Good morning ” as I pass, 

And daisies nodding with the dew 
Seem to say, “How-do-you-do?” 

Mother says that, like the flowers, 
Children should smile through the hours, 
And with their pleasant faces greet 
All whom on their way they meet. 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


23 


THE SONG OF THE SHELL 

Near where I played last summer, 
’Way down beside the sea, 

I found this pretty sea-shell 
That sings a song to me. 

I wonder if a mermaid, 

A-floating in the sea, 

Sang the song into the shell 

The green waves brought to me? 


ONE PLAYMATE 

My brother Ben is only tw T elve, 

But he’s too big to play with me; 

He throws the balls all up too high, 
Farther up than I can see. 

Sister Helen will play a while, 

But very soon I see her look, 

(When she thinks that I don’t see her) 
Into her old story book. 

Father wants to read the paper, 

And mother has fancy work to do — 

Of all our folks only grandma 

Is young enough to play with you. 


24 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


A CHILD’S IDEA 

What do they do in the houses 
Where no little children live? 

When things get lost and broken, 
What excuses can they give? 

How can they go to the circus, 

If not “ For the children’s sake ? ” 

Who, there, runs all the errands, 
And the crusts of bread will take? 

They say children are a bother — 
And I suppose it’s true; 

But I should think that some folks 
Would be glad for one or two. 


MOTHER’S TURN 

We have a dear baby at our house, 
With eyes as blue as the sky. 

I just love to play with him — 
Until he begins to cry. 

Uncle John, too, plays with baby, 
He tosses him way up high, 

And rides him on his shoulder — 
Until he begins to cry. 


PIECES FOR EVERY DAY 


25 


Aunt Edna likes to dress the baby, 

And his little blue bows tie. 

She calls him “ Darling baby ”— 

Until he begins to cry. 

We all of us love little baby 

When he laughs and crows — but, oh my! 

You ought to see us give him to mamma 
When he begins to cry. 

A DIFFERENCE OF OPINION 

Girl I could have more to eat, 

And make lots more noise, 

And not always be so tidy, 

If I were one of the boys. 

But when it’s dark at night, 

Close up to mamma I can curl, 

And need n’t make believe I’m brave — 
Because I am a girl. 

Boy I could have a heap of clothes, 

And my hair in curls; 

They wouldn’t always hush me up, 

If I were one of the girls. 

But only dolls and kittens! 

And no base-ball! No, sir! 

I’d rather have two boys’ lickings, 

Than he a girl — like her! 


26 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


First Child 


Second 


Third 


All 


I’D LIKE TO BE 

I’d like to be a doctor, 

With a carriage and a horse. 

But getting up at night 
Isn’t fun, of course. 

It’s fun to play I’m grandpa, 

And carry a long cane, 

But I’m glad that, when I want to, 
I can be a boy again. 

It’s fun to play I’m teacher 

And say, “Now stand in line!” 

But if I had to be all day, 

It wouldn’t be so fine. 

It’s fun to play “grown-up,” 
With grown-up cares and joys, 

But it’s really best to be 
Just little girls and boys. 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 


HER CHOICE 

My papa has a lot of books, 

And says that they are fine; 

But I would n’t take them all 
For one with pictures, like mine. 

[Holds open book containing large colored pictures] 


MAMMA’S GIRL 

I can’t make music like Clara, 
And my hair won’t ever curl, 
But my mamma loves me best 
Because I’m her little girl. 


A LADY OF TITLE 

The big folks all say “Baby” Ruth 
’Stead of “ Miss,” as they’ve been told. 
Just think of saying “ baby ” 

To a lady five years old! 

27 



28 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


TPIE SAME DOLL 

Dorothy May’s body is new, 

And even her head’s not the same. 

There’s nothing left of my old dolly 
Except the dear child’s name. 

[Holds doll] 


PAPA’S GIRL 

Papa says I may sit in his lap, 

Until my feet will touch the floor; 

But if I hold my knees way up, 

I can make it a few years more! 

[A little girl sits in a chair while reciting and draws up knees 
at end of third line] 


POOR MAY 

When I pull a daisy I always say, 

“ May’s good, May’s bad, May’s good, May’s 
bad,” 

But, no matter which way I begin it, 

It always comes out, “May’s bad.” 

A YOUNG M. D. 

I’m learning to be a doctor, 

And I’m a good one too! 

I cured dolly’s measles in a day, 

Tier whooping-cough in two. 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 


29 


ECONOMY 

I don’t need shoes — I could go barefoot. 

Nor hats — they always hang by the string. 
If mamma would save some money that way, 
She could easily buy me a ring. 


ALAS FOR DOLLY 

I went to a funeral yesterday, 

But you needn’t look so sad — 

I just buried my dolly for an hour, 
Because she had been bad. 


THE PENALTY 

I showed mamma how I could dust 
Every speck awa}-; 

But, alas, now I must show her 
Almost every day! 


A GOOD EXAMPLE? 

Mamma takes wee, little stitches, 

While I take great big ones — so ! 

She would get done lots faster 
If she sewed my way, I know. 

[Takes long irregular stitches in a piece of cloth while reciting] 


30 BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 
A GIFT 

I asked mamma the nicest thing 
That little girls can do. 

She told me’t was baking kisses — 

Here’s one I baked for you. 

[Blows kiss at audience] 


MODERN FAIRIES 

They say fairies wore wings on their shoulders, 
When they danced in the old flower-beds; 
Nowadays little girls are fairies, 

But we wear our wings on our heads. 

[Touches large ribbon bows on each side of head] 


WISE EDITH 

When I play tea-party mother says, 

“ My little girl may have what she wishes.” 
But I always just make-believe eat, 

So it’ll be make-believe wash the dishes. 


A TIMELY SUGGESTION 

I’ve told the folks I want a doll, 
And I tell you all the same. 

If someone cannot take a hint, 

I surely sha n’t be to blame. 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 


31 


A GOOD FRIEND 

When I told brother a secret, 

He told mother that very day; 

When I told her papa’s present, 

She told him right away. 

So now, when I’ve a secret, 

I tell my dearest Kitty Cole; 

And kitty softly says, “ Meouw! Meouw! ” 
And never tells a soul. 

THE BEST FRIEND 

I’d rather have my dolly, 

Than any girl I know, 

For when I’m tired of company, 

I can put her down — just so. 

[Lays doll upon chair] 

And, if I forget all about her, 

She will never sulk or cry; 

But will be smiling just as sweetly, 

When I want her bye-and-bye. 

A SUCCESSFUL MOTHER 

Mamma says that raising children 
Is very hard to do; 

But I can do it very well, 

Though to me the work is new. 


32 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


My dolly is a better child 
Than any girl I know — 

She sits up straight and folds her hands 
And always stays just so. 

OLD FRIENDS ARE BEST 

My old doll’s name is Susan, 

My new one’s is Marie. 

My old one’s dressed in calico, 

The new in white, you see. 

[Holds up doll] 

But, when I go to bed at night, 

And it’s dark as dark can be, 

I think my dear old Susan 
Will be the doll for me. 

STYLE 

When my dolly was new, 

She had long brown hair. 

I curled and I combed it 
And fixed it with care. 

The way that I liked it best, 

A “Marcel” was called; 

But I fixed it so often 
Poor dolly grew bald. 


[Holds “bald” doll] 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 

t 

A DIFFERENCE OF OPINION 


33 


When I put dolly to sleep, 

I hold her feet up high, 

And she goes off right away 
Without the smallest cry. 

And, if it works with dolly, 

It would for baby too; 

Rut mother’s so old-fashioned 
She thinks it wouldn’t do. 

[Little girl holds doll as she recites] 

AN EXCUSE 

I meant to dress my Anna May 
In the very latest style, 

But I found to make such clothes 
Would take an awful while. 

I’d have to cut and baste and stitch, 

And so to make plain,— 

A blanket is just as healthful, 

And won’t make the dear child vain. 

TOO BUSY 

My doll’s-house is upset for cleaning, 

My poor dolls have nothing to wear. 

I am just so awfully busy 
I haven’t a minute to spare. 


34 BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 

4 

I look at that house, all upset, 

And my sewing piled so high, 

Then I walk out and shut the door 
And go to watch mamma make pie. 

DOLLIES 

Here’s my finest dolly,— 

She lives in a box on the shelf, 

She’s way up in the world — 

You can see that for yourself! 

But in the big chair beside me, 

Like a birdie in its nest, 

Is my poor, dear rag dolly,— 

She’s the one I love the best! 

[Two chairs, one on each side of little girl. In one a fine doll. 
In the other several small dolls. She holds up the rag doll at the 
end] 


OPINIONS DIFFER 

My mother says cake and candy 
Are both very bad for me; 

That I can’t have pie or pudding, 
And must drink milk ’stead of tea. 

But to me it seems quite foolish, 

No matter what doctors say, 

For I feed them all to dolly, 

And she’s never sick a day. 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 


35 


THE CONTRAST 

When Brother Will breaks anything, 
Or makes an awful noise, 

Some one is sure to smile and say, 

“ Well! boys will be boys.” 

But if I have an accident, 

Or scream, when they pull my curls, 
I get scolded and no one says, 

“Well, girls will be girls!” 

A YOUNG COOK 

When I helped mother get dinner, 
Hot fat flew in my eyes, 

And I burnt all my fingers 
When I took out the pies. 

Father laughed at me and said, 
When he saw how I looked: 

“ I see it was not the dinner 
But the cook that was cooked.” 

A YOUNG HOUSEKEEPER 

I went to market this morning, 

And I bought such a lot of things. 
I can always tell what I want 
By the color of the strings. 


/ 


36 BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 

This pink’ll do for dolly’s necklace, 

This green one her sash will be. 

You ask me what’s in my bundles — 

Why, I never looked to see! 

[Several small packages in a chair or on the floor. Child holds 
up one after another as she recites] 


HARD LUCK 

Mother says that I mustn’t tease, 
And I mustn’t muss my hair, 
That I mustn’t lose my ribbons, 
An I must n’t ever stare. 

I must n’t walk in the puddles — 
And so it goes every day! 

There are many things you must n’t 
And very few you may. 


THE PRETTIEST EYES 

What color of eyes are the prettiest? 

My Uncle Bob says, “blue.” 

And Aunt Plarriet says, “big black ones,” 
And brother thinks so too. 

But I y m sure mother’s are prettiest. 

I know you’d all think so. 

Now what color are mother’s eyes? 

Why — I — why — I — don’t know! 


PIECES FOR GIRLS 


37 


A SUBSTITUTE 

They asked me if I would speak a piece, 

But I was scared as I could be, 

So they said that I might hold dolly 
While she made the speech for me. 

[Pause. Girl looking into doll’s face.] 

Oh dear! Dolly’s forgotten her piece, 

And she does n’t know any other. 

Poor dolly is bashful too, I guess, 

Just like her little mother. 

STYLISH 

I s ’pose you think my dolls are funny, 
Though you’re too polite to smile. 

You think China ones are better, 

’Cause they ’re big and last a while. 

But paper ones don’t grow old-fashioned. 

Each day I cut a pile; 

So you see my dolls are always 
In the very latest style. 

[Child holds string of paper dolls] 

POOR DOLLY 

I cannot wash my Mary Jane, 

Because her body’s made of clay; 

Nor Susan May Cornelia, 

Because she’s stuffed with hay. 


38 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


So when one of them gets dirty, 

And I can ’t wash her as I should, 

I give the bath to Liza Ann, 

’Cause she is made of wood! 

JUST ME 

I have 46 my papa’s eyes,” 

I have my 44 mamma’s hair,” 

My dimples are 44 like my auntie’s,” 

My hands are 44 those of Grandma Dare.” 

I have my 44 uncle’s chin,” 

I have my “mamma’s walk,” 

And 44 you would know whose child she was, 
If you only heard her talk.” 

It really is quite shocking! 

So I look in the glass to see 
If there is n’t just one little piece 
That’s like no one but me! 


PIECES FOR BOYS 


A YOUNG DIPLOMAT 

I asked for a nickel, when they promised 
A quarter, if I’d behave. 

But I’d rather have a nickel to spend 
Than a half dollar to save! 

BILLY’S PLAN 

There are so few things that you may, 
And so many you must n’t do, 

That, first, I do the things I may 
And then what I mustn’t, too. 

THE BEST 

I have engines, drums, and soldiers — 
Oh, every kind of toy! 

But the nicest thing to play with 
Is a real , live boy. 

THE BEST OF ALL 

Their automobiles turn turtle, 

And their air-ships always fall. 

I guess my little express-wagon 
Just about beats them all. 


39 



BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


FATHER’S HELPER 

I’m just as tired as I can be, 
Though I am pretty strong. 

I had to re-plant papa’s beans, 
For every one came up wrong. 

A FISHERMAN 

Father laughs when I fish in the rain barrel, 
Laughs and chuckles, “Well, well, well! 
But mother says my fish stories 
Are as good as those he can tell. 

A BOY’S WISH 

Auntie gave me a silver quarter — 
Ladies don’t understand boys. 

I’d rather have twenty-five pennies — 
They would make a lot more noise. 

A GOOD PROSPECT 

I’m going to be a lawyer, 

And I’ve heard mamma say 
That I ought to make a good one, 
For I can talk all day. 

A REFORMER 

When I am big and raise children, 
They ’ll be happy as can be, 

With candy and cake for breakfast, 
Ice-cream for dinner and tea. 


PIECES FOR BOYS 


41 


BEDTIME BRAVERY 

About bears and snakes and lions, 

I’m as brave as brave can be; 

But going up alone to bed, 

Is a little too much for me. 

[First two lines said loudly and with emphasis. Last lines said 
slowly and softly] 


HIS CHOICE 


Mother and Nell like chocolates, 

Rob eats bon-bons till he gets sick, 

But I know what will beat them all — 

It’s taffj-on-a-stick! 

[Brings taffy from behind him and exhibits it at conclusion of 
the piece] 


A CONTRADICTION 


My teacher says, “Johnnie’s a good boy — 
He’s worked and worked all day.” 

But mamma says, “ Be a good boy, 

Now, run away and play." 


A BOY’S CONCLUSION 

Mother takes one piece of candy, 
Father says two are enough to eat; 
But I’d like to have half a box full. 

I guess all my teeth are “ sweet.” 


42 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS ‘ 


TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING 

I do n’t like mashed potato, 

So I eat it fast as I can. 

Then father says, “Why, he likes it, 
Here is some more, little man! ” 


HIS OPINION 

Girls all want ribbons and sashes; 

Boys w r ant a sword and a gun. 
Being a girl must be awful; 

But being a boy is fun. 


RIVALRY 

I cannot play the big boys’ games, 

I cannot count their scores; 

But I can make a noise as big 
As — ALL — OUT — DOORS! 

[Last three words shouted] 


ALMOST A MAN 

To-day, I went to school alone. 

They say I’m awful brave. 
Guess I must be almost a man — 
’Fore long I ’ll have to shave! 


PIECES FOR BOYS 


43 


KNOWLEDGE 

You big folks know many things — 

Many things more than I do; 

But ’bout what’s in my pocket * 

I know much more than you do. 

[* Slaps a bulging pocket] 


HARD LUCK 

I have to mind all the big folks, 

As well as father and mother; 

But it’s piling it on, to say, 

44 Come, Willie, mind your baby brother! ” 


AN UNHAPPY AGE 

When I want to suck my thumb, 

44 Oh, you ’re too big a boy,” they say; 
But, when I want to light the fire, 

It’s, 44 You’re too little!” right away. 


A YOUNG FINANCIER 

I saved up a lot of money, 

Just enough my bank to fill. 
Half of it I spent for candy, 
And half for the doctor’s bill. 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


FAMILY RESEMBLANCE 

When I’ve been as good as gold, 

I hear my mamma say, 

“Willie is like my family. 

He surely is a 4 Day! ’ ” 

But when I’ve been real naughty, 
She says, 44 It’s easily seen, 

Willie is like his father, 

He surely is a 4 Green.’ ” 

DIFFERENT VIEW POINTS 

Ma can’t see why I need ten pockets, 

And why I have so many strings, 

Nor why I carry ten-penny nails, 

And lots of pointed things. 

44 Why don’t I carry a handkerchief?” 

She questions and questions — but then 
There’s no use in explaining it-^- 
Women can’t understand us men. 


THE TELL-TALE 

44 A little birdie” tells mother, 

When I have been stealing jam, 

And father says, when I’m bad in school. 
44 A little bird told me, Sam.” 


PIECES FOR BOYS 


45 


I have looked in all sorts of places, 
But I never can see — 

Let alone think of catching, 

The bird that tells on me. 


A BUSY" BOY 

I have to hunt for Grandpa’s specks, 
Because he cannot see; 

And run upstairs for Grandma, 
Because it hurts her knee. 

With all the errands for our folks, 

I don’t know what I’ll do. 

It seems to me I ’ll have to get 
Something the matter, too. 


TED’S CHOICE 

All of our folks like a city home 

When there’s lots of cold and snow, 
And the country in the hottest months, 
When it’s green and the breezes blow. 

But give me the country in winter, 
When there are no chores to do, 

And the city in the summer-time, 

When all the schools are through. 


46 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


BOY WANTED 

I ’d like a boy to take the blame 
For everything I do, 

And, whenever I am very bad, 

To take my whippings too. 

But the boys I know do n’t care to, 
And so I think it wise, 

To do like other business men — 

I’ll have to advertise. 

ONE EXCEPTION 

I’m so very fond of w T ater, 

When it’s summer, to sail a ship, 

Or when it has turned to ice in winter, 
And I skate with never a slip. 

Later on, when I’m a man, 

I’ll be a sailor, I hope. 

You see, I like water in every way, 
Except in a basin with soap. 

THE EXPLANATION 

My Uncle Richard was always good — 
Father was a model boy — 

And my Uncle Thomas says that he 
Was always his mother’s joy. 


PIECES FOR BOYS 


47 


I’ve often wondered how that could be,— 
But I ’ve come to think that then 
There could n’t have been real boys like me. 
But just little cut-down men. 


A DREADFUL POSSIBILITY 

Father stood me in a door-way, 

Took a ruler and made a line, 

Then he looked at mother and said, 
“Willie’s just two feet and nine.” 

Then to me he gave the ruler, 

And for a week I’ve been going; 

But always it measures the same — 

Do you s’pose I’ve stopped growing? 


AN EXPERT 

When I tried to be a carpenter, 

It was awful hard on chairs; 
And, when I was an acrobat, 

I fell all the way downstairs. 

So, now, I am a detective, 

And I’m getting along first rate. 
I can detect the smell of cookies 
As far off as the gate. 


48 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


DON’T 

I wish there were a place 
Where boys like I could go; 

Where mammas and papas would say “Yes” 
Instead of always “No.” 

It’s “ do n’t this,” and “ do n’t that,” 

Till you do n’t know where you’re at. 

The only “ do n’t ” I’ve never heard said, 

Is “Don’t — now, don’t go to bed!” 

AMBITION 

Ma says I’m to be a minister, 

Father says a lawyer bright, 

Uncle says a doctor,— 

And so it goes, day and night. 

Sister Nell says a brave sailor, 

Or a soldier with swords and sashes; 

But I mean to drive the wagon 
That goes collecting ashes. 

A REFORMER 

S’pose you think curls are pretty — 
Most folks I know seem to. 

They pat them and they pull them 
And they beg for one or two. 


PIECES FOR BOYS 


49 


But when I’m a big lawyer, 

I ’ll do the best I can 
To have them make a law: 
Straight hair for every man. 


A GOOD INVESTMENT 

I have just the finest horse, 

He can gallop fast all day, 

With never a stop to rest, 

Nor a bit of oats or hay. 

His stable is in my playroom, 

But now you’ve guessed, of course, 

That this tireless steed of mine, 

Is my dear old hobby-horse. 

A BRAVE BOY 

I’m not afraid to go to bed, 

All alone in the dark; 

Neither do I cover my head 
When some old dog does bark. 

I’m just as brave as any man, 

Though I’m only four — 

When I’m sure mother’s waiting 
Just outside the door. 

[Last two lines spoken in a sort of whisper] 


50 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


THE FAMILY DOCTOR 

Billy Jones’ folks have a fine doctor, 

He can beat ours by a mile. 

When Billy gets nervous and sickish, 

He says, “Keep him from school for awhile.” 

But when I’ve a pain or a headache 
And our doctor comes, you know, 

He says, “ Much less candy and sweet things, 
And to bed before eight you must go.” 

HIS VERY OWN 

I’ve made believe I had grandpa’s gout, 
When any one touched me, my, I’d howl! 
I’ve made believe I had papa’s headache 
And tied my head in a towel. 

I’ve played with Uncle Ben’s crutches, 

As if I could n’t stand alone; 

But the day I ate green apples, 

I had a stomach-ache all my own. 


PIECES FOR THANKSGIVING 


A SURPRISE 

They held the wish-bone tightly, 

They pulled on it with a will, 

Each wished to get the longer piece, 
But, instead, each got — a spill. 

A GREAT CONVENIENCE 

I’m not so very high, 

Nor yet so very wide; 

But when it’s pie- or turkey-time, 

I’m mighty big inside! 

THANKFUL 

I’m thankful for turkey, 

I’m thankful for pickle — 

If I say this piece, 

Papa ’ll give me a nickel. 

THE DAY AFTER 

Some mammas are very strange! 

Do you know, I’ve heard mine say 
She’s so glad the cooking’s over, 

That Friday is her Thanksgiving Day! 
51 



52 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


A THANKFUL BOY 

I’m thankful for lessons. 

I’m thankful for fun. 

I’m thankful, just now, 

That my piece is done. 

TRULY THANKFUL 

Little Ruth went round the table, 

Standing on wee tip-toe, 

Seeing the big brown turkey, 

And empty plates all in a row. 

She thanked the good old gobbler, 

She thanked the pumpkin-vine too; 

For she knew what Thanksgiving meant. 

Now I wonder if you do, too? 

JAMIE’S LESSON 

Just a tiny piece, hanging over the edge — 

And pie-crust is not tidy — hanging over the edge. 
Just a little taste of pumpkin, sweet within — 

It s awfully hard to stop, when you once begin. 

A ery soon a great big hole was made in pie and crust! 
Just think when mamma sees it — and, of course, 
she must! 

Next day, at Jamie’s place stood that tell-tale pie; 
Other folks had turkey — Jamie had — all that pie! 


PIECES FOR THANKSGIVING 


53 


THANKLESS CHILDREN 

Fred said his dinner was too hot; 

May, that the chicken was too old. 
Frank’s piece of pie was far too small, 
While baby’s ice-cream was too cold. 

And so all the day they grumbled, 

Not a pleasant word did they say: 
Not one word of thanks was given 
On that Thanksgiving Day. 


PAPA’S SHARE 

Ned wants a “ piece of white,” 
Auntie says, “some dark,” 

Belle says, “ a piece of breast,” 
And Bessie claims “the heart.” 

Freddie wants “ a drumstick,” 
Nellie says, “a wing,” 

Uncle says, “ Oh, some of each,” 
Mamma says, “ most anything.” 

So papa carved the chicken, 

Did it just first rate. 

Gave to each of them his choice, 
And papa had — the plate! 


54 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


BOBBY’S DECISION 

Last Easter I got a wee chicken, 
The dearest little yellow ball; 
And they said if I took care of him, 
He’d be ready to kill by Fall. 

So I got him fat for Thanksgiving, 
But he’s much too nice to eat. 
Our family’ll have to be thankful 
For just every-day roast meat. 


THANKSGIVING IS BEST 


For Four Children 

First Child 

Some folks like Christmas — 
Well, of course, so do I. 

Second 

Some folks like Easter, 

With lots of eggs to dye. 

Third 

We all like Decoration Day — 
All of us girls and boys. 

F ourth 

Every one likes the Fourth — 
Especially the noise. 


PIECES FOR THANKSGIVING 


55 


Fifth 

But give me Thanksgiving Day, 

When to grandpa’s we go, 

And grandma says, “ Oh, let him eat! 
Eating makes him grow.” 


WE THANK THEE 

For Four Children 

First Child 

Thy name, dear God, to-day we praise, 

For many pleasant, happy days. 

Second 

We thank Thee for the soft spring showers; 
We thank Thee for the summer flowers. 

Third 

We thank thee for the bright fall leaves, 
And for the wheat in golden sheaves. 

Fourth 

We thank Thee for the winter snow, 

For Christ, who came so long ago. 

All 

And now together we do say, * 

“ We thank Thee” on Thanksgiving Day. 


56 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


[Children h< 
reciting their 
speaks, they a 

First Child 

Second 

Third 

Fourth 

Fifth 

Siocth 

Seventh 

Eighth 

Ninth 

Tenth 

Eleventh 

Twelfth 


THANKSGIVING 


For Twelve Children 

Did large letters behind them and bring them out when 
part and retain them in this position. When the last 
11 bow and retire] 

T is for turkey — nice and brown. 

H is for hunger, that helps it down. 

A is for apples red and round. 

N is for nuts all over the ground. 

K is for kisses my mamma gives me. 

S is for snow, I want to see. 

G is for grace before we eat. 

I is for ice-ci;eam cold and sweet. 

V is for verses we are saying. 

I is for ice and lots of sleighing. 

N is for November, the month with us now. 
G is for “ Good Bye,” so we shall all bow. 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 


A RESOLUTION 

I’ve learned there are no fairies, 

And there’s no Jack Frost, they say, 
But I’m going to believe in Santa 
Until I am old and gray. 

IN DANGER 

The other boys want to grow big; 

But I’m sure I do n’t, because 
I’m afraid that I might get too big 
To believe in Santa Claus. 

A LAMENT 

Same old Christmas stockings! 

Same old Santa too! 

When you ’re old as I am 
There is nothing new. 

WAITING 

We must always wait for the best things, 
Like stories, till bed-time is near. 

I wonder if that is the reason 

That Christmas comes late in the year? 

57 



58 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


A CONSIDERATE BOY 

I’ve found a horn and rocking-horse 
And a cow-boy suit for me; 

But when they give me my presents, 

I ’ll be s ’prised as I can be! 

WHY? 

I have a new mouth-organ, 

A tin horn and a drum. 

I wonder why mamma wishes 

“ Christmas would never come?” 

THE BEST OF ALL 

It isn’t the Christmas dinner, 

Or seeing the presents on the tree; 

But the hunting, and smelling, and guessing, 
That’s the best of Christmas to me! 

THE DAY FOR ALL 

Election Day is for fathers, 

And Bargain Day for mothers. 
Dollies are for the little girls, 

And tops are for their brothers. 

Some things are only for big folks, 

And some things are just for small; 
But I m sure we ’re glad as can be 
That Christmas is for all. 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 


59 


ONE EXCEPTION 

I often forget and say “ain’t” 

And always “best” for “better.” 

Teacher says she thinks I have 
A very good forgetter. 

But in spite of all I forget, 

There’s one thing I remember, 

And that’s the date that Christmas comes — 
The twenty-fifth of December . 

[Last li6e shouted] 


THE ONE TIME 

I don’t like folks to stop talking, 
Whenever I come near; 

And, if I ask a question, 

To say, “ Never mind, my dear.” 

Unless it is just around Christmas, 

When I do n’t care what they’ve said, 

Or mind being told to “ run away,” 

Nor even going to bed. 

LONG AGO 

I should like to have seen the angels, 

As they came floating through the air, 

I should like to have seen the shepherds, 
As they knelt by Him in prayer. 


60 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


I should like to have seen the bright star 
Shedding afar its light so fair, 

But more should I like to have seen 
The dear Baby King who was there. 


A COMFORTING THOUGHT 

Dear Santa Claus was very old 
A great many years ago, 

For in my grandma’s picture-book 
His hair is white as snow. 

But since he looked about as old 
Such a long, long time before; 

I guess he ’ll live while I’ma child — 
It’s only a few years more. 


THE HOLLY TREE 

The holly’s glossy leaves 
Are green beneath the snow, 

And on the darkest days 
Its bright red berries glow. 

The other trees are bare 
And shudder in the breeze, 

But they fear not the winter’s storm — 
The little holly trees. 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 


61 


THE CHRISTMAS TREE 

“ A Christmas tree makes such a dirt,” 
Mother and Grandma said. 

It made me feel so dreadfully 
I cried when I went to bed. 

Mother heard — and, now it’s up,— 
The big folks agree with me 

That Christmas would n’t be Christmas, 
Without any Christmas tree. 

A MODEST DESIRE 

I want a long sword and a pistol, 

A hatchet and a gun; 

And an Indian sword and head-dress 
Would be a lot of fun. 

A nice little toy automobile, 

A sled about my size, 

With anything Santa Claus would like 
To give me for a surprise. 

A WARNING 

The Christmas presents I have bought 
Are as nice as nice can be. 

There’s only one bad thing about them 
And that’s how well they suit me. 


62 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


They are all what I have been wanting, 

And just as sure as you live, 

If Christmas doesn’t hurry up, 

I ’ll have nothing left to give. 

A CHILD’S HARDSHIP 

Early on Christmas morning, 

Auntie took my new doll, May, 

And Uncle Tom took my sled, 

And rode on it all day. 

They seem to like my playthings 
And are as happy as can be, 

Making believe they ’re children; 

But it’s pretty hard on me. 

A DREADFUL THREAT 

Here’s a letter from Santa Claus 
That came addressed to me. 

He says that children, nowadays, 

Are greedy as can be; 

That tin horns, and dollies, and sleds 
Are no longer what they like, 

But air-ships, furs and autos, 

So Santa’s going to strike. 

[Child holds sheet of paper in hand while reciting] 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 
A SHREWD CHOICE 


63 


Not what I get but what I give, 

Will make Christmas happy for me; 
That is what mamma tells us, 

And I’m sure I want to be. 

So I’ve bought my father a horn, 

A fireman’s cap for Sister Sue, 

And a top and a sword for baby — 

I guess I’ll be happy — don’t you? 

A SOLUTION 

If your stocking was so little, 

It would n’t hold a base-ball bat, 

And you wanted one awfully — 

Say, what would you do about that? 

What do you suppose that I could do? 

I am sure that I do not know,— 
Unless I ask Santa to pin the wrapping 
Fast to the stocking’s toe. 

HOW COULD I TELL? 

If I should close my eyes and ears, 
And couldn’t even smell, 

Somehow when Christmas came along, 
I believe that I could tell. 


64 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


If I didn’t see the turkey, 

Nor in the presents share, 

I’m sure I’d know’t was Christmas — 
I’d feel it in the air. 


AN ALTERATION 

You think my stocking’s foot is funny? 

Well, you see, it was so small 
I was afraid that Santa’s fingers 
Could n’t get in at all. 

But now he won’t have any trouble. 

It is five times as big as before, 

And I really should n’t be surprised 
If it held a little more. 

[Child holds up a small stocking to which the foot of a large 
sock has been roughly sewn] 

JACK FROST’S TREE 

Far out in the deep forest, 

I found a tall tree 

That Jack Frost had been trimming, 

As fine as could be. 

It was powdered with snowflakes, 

And with icicles hung, 

That tinkled, “ Merry Christmas! ” 

As in the breeze they swung. 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 
SANTA AT HOME 


65 


Old Santa was so happy, 

His big kind face was red, 

And good old Mrs. Santa worked 
While you were all abed. 

All the lovely sleds were piled 
In a heap against the wall, 

And big and little dollies 
Were boxed up in the hall. 

For Santa Claus had promised 
That each child should receive 
A present this Christmas-time — 
And’t was almost Christmas Eve. 

So good old Santa pounded; 

Good Mrs. Santa sewed; 

Sleds, dollies, drums, and candy — 
It was a tremendous load. 

Now listen! Go to sleep to-night, 
Do n’t peep a single peep, 

For Santa is due at your house 
When you are fast asleep. 

THE KING’S BIRTHDAY 

’Twas not in palace royal, 

That came the great King’s birth; 

But angel hosts did herald 
The tidings o’er all the earth. 


66 BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


Upon the hay in a manger, 
Must lay the baby’s head; 
But to Him by a wondrous star 
Kings from afar were led. 


He was but a helpless baby, 
But to Him the Father gave 
Pardon for sin-lost millions, 
And a life beyond the grave. 


Full reverently we keep Thy day, 
Thy birthday, oh, our King! 
And, as of old, we offer gifts 
And gladsome carols sing. 


SANTA’S ABODE 

When I heard that Mr. Peary 

Had really found the North Pole, 
I was very much worried,— 

Tho’ I never told a soul! 


For, you see, my books all said 
That Santa lived up there, 

With the seals and the reindeer, 
And the great, big grizzly bear. 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 


67 


But Santa heard the explorers coming, 
And to the South Pole hurried away,— 

Then I hoped they would not find that 
For many and many a day. 

But even the old South Pole 
Was discovered very soon, 

So I suppose Santa must be living 
On the dark side of the moon. 

SANTA’S PRESENT 

When Auntie said that Ned was sick, 
Mamma only laughed a bit, 

And said, “ Oh, Ned is thinking — 
He’ll soon get over it.” 

Now about what, do you think, it was 
That our little Ned thought? 

He wondered if any one ever 

Had for Santa a present bought. 

So next day, the little boy took 
All the money that he had, 

And bought a pair of warm mittens 
To make old Santa glad. 

He pinned them on his stocking 

With a note which he pinned on, tooj 
“ A merry Christmas, dear Santa — 
These mittens are for you.” 


68 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


WATCHING FOR SANTA 

For Five Children 

Children in concert 

We’re going to watch for Santa. 

We’re going to be sure this year. 
We’ll be as quiet as mice — 

He ’ll never guess we ’re here. 


First Child 

I ’ll keep watch by the big front door. 

[Goes and sits in chair at left] 

Second 

1 'll watch under my bed, on the floor. 
[Lies down at right] 

Third 

I ’ll keep watch by the window low. 

[Goes to back of platform] 

Fourth 

I’ll sit in mamma’s chair, just so. 

[Curls down in chair as if asleep] 

Santa [coming in softly~\ 

Four little children live in this house, 
But I’ll be as quiet as any mouse, 

For, though they hide, I very well know 
They all went to sleep an hour ago. 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 


69 


LASSIES’ WISHES 

For Five Girls 

First Child 

If Santa Claus sent me a wish, 

From his castle on high, 

I’d wish for a lovely big doll, 

Almost as big as I 

Second 

If Santa Claus gave me a wish, 

In my wish I would say: 

“ A great, big dollie’s house and yard, 
A dollie’s coach and sleigh.” 

Third 

If Santa Claus gave me a wish, 

I’d jump right up and down, 

And say, “ The biggest Christmas tree 
That you can find in town.” 

F ourth 

If Santa Claus gave me a wish, 

I’d not have to think a minute, 

But say right off, “A great big box 
With lots of candy in it.” 

Fifth 

If Santa Claus gave me a wish, 

I should not ask for dolls or toys, 

But say, “ Please, Santa, give the rest 
To poor little girls and boys.” 

First Four Children [in unison ] 

Oh yes! That would be better, 
Let’s write and ask him to? 


70 BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 
SANTA’S HELPERS 
The Fairies 

For Six Girls 

Leader [larger child , who comes on platform and 
after speaking stands over to the left ] 

Here come the Christmas Fairies! 

Dear Santa has asked them to make 
Some presents for the big load 
That on Christmas Eve he ’ll take. 

First Fairy [enters at right , and takes position a little 
to left of center~\ 

I help Santa when I sew. 

See how fast my needles go. 

[Sews carelessly on piece of cloth] 

Second Fairy [enters and stands hy First Fairy ] 

I make things for the Christmas tree.* 
Children could never do without me. 

[Holds out tinsel, etc.] 

Third Fairy [enters and stands hy Second Fairy~\ 

I make socks for the baby’s feet — 

Not a dropped stitch — now, isn’t that neat? 
[Shows little socks] 

Fourth Fairy [enters and stands hy Third Fairy~\ 
I’m the sweetest fairy of them all. 

I make candy canes, both large and small. 
[Holds out candy canes] 


PIECES FOR CHRISTMAS 


71 


Larger Child [coming on from the left~\ 

Come, little Christmas Fairies, 

You must get back to your work. 

Santa Claus will never have 
Little Fairies that shirk. 

[Exeunt] 

[A pretty but simple decoration, which pleases the children, is a 
straight band of heavy Manila paper or light-weight cardboard 
made to fit around the head, and covered with silver or gold paper 
with a star above the center of the forehead. The ends are fas¬ 
tened at back of head with a pin, or needle and thread. The crown 
is placed with star over forehead] 

SANTA’S HELPERS. 

The Brownies 

For Six Boys 

Leader [enters at right. After reciting moves to left , 
apart from others .] 

We are the Christmas Brownies 
And we have lots of fun; 

But Santa says we’re first rate 
For getting the presents done. 

First Brownie 

I’m the Brownie that makes your horn. 

Oh my, the racket on Christmas morn! 

[Holds out horn while speaking, and blows blast when done] 

Second Brownie 

I’m the Brownie that’s full of tricks. 

In little boys’ stockings I put crooked sticks. 

[Holds up stockings and bunch of sticks] 


72 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


Third Brownie 

I’m the Brownie that paints your sled. 

Speak up quickly — shall it be blue or red? 

[Carries small sled in his arms] 

Fourth Brownie 

I make your wooden sword and pasteboard gun, 
To shoot wicked robbers and make bunnies run. 
[Carries sword and gun of pasteboard] 

Larger Boy [enters at right ] 

Come, come, my Brownies! You must hasten 
away. 

There’s much work to finish — in — just — one 
— day! 


[Exit right after last speaker] 


PIECES FOR SPECIAL DAYS 


LABOR DAY 

This is one of the few days 

When folks from work can stay. 
Now, don’t you think it’s queer 
They call it 44 Labor Day ” ? 

NEW YEAR 

A baby came to town last night, 

And they did the queerest thing, 
Instead of keeping very quiet, 

They made all the bells to ring. 

This dear little baby has no home, 

Nor any mother, I fear. 

I s ’pose by this time you’ve guessed it— 
’Twas little baby 44 New Year.” 

AN OFFER 

Cupid has run all out of paper — 

Can’t make one more valentine ! 

So, if you folks are willing, 

I ’ll be yours and you ’ll be mine. 

73 



74 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


CUPID’S MESSENGER 

Cupid’s postmen are so busy, 

He asked me, would I please 
Give out some of the valentines — 

So I shall give you these. 

[Tosses a handful of small red hearts toward the audience] 

A BOY’S PATRIOTISM. 

You ask how a boy, as small as I, 

Can honor the flag that floats on high 
By being always honest and true 

A boy may honor the “Red, White, and Blue.” 

WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY 

Washington was a President 
And a general, so they say; 

But the very best thing he did 
Was to give us a holiday. 

WHAT A BOY MAY BE 

A boy can’t be a general, 

Nor President, of course; 

He cannot fight the Indians, 

Nor tame a kicking horse; 

But he can have a neat copy-book 
Be manly in his fun, 

And as loving to his mother 
As George Washington. 


PIECES FOR SPECIAL DAYS 


75 


SMALL PATRIOTS 


For Three Boys 


First Boy 

Stand up, boys ! Honor the red, 

Hue of the blood, brave men have shed. 


Second 

Hats off boys ! Honor the white, 
Emblem of purity, mercy and right ! 

Third 

Cheer, boys, cheer ! Cheer for the blue ! 
Serve it like men, steadfast and true ! 


All 

Wave it boys ! Wave it on high, 
We’ll live with it and with it die ! 


MAY DAY 

Herald [small hoy who enters on the left. Goes to 
middle of platform , recites and retires to right of 
stage~\ 

We crown, this bright day, our Queen of May. 

[Queen and escort enter from left. Escort places queen on throne 
in center and, standing to left, places crown upon the head of the 
Queen] 

Escort 

I give thee, fair queen, thy sweet flowery crown, 
May joy bless thy reign ! May fortune ne’er 
frown ! 


76 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


Line of Children [file in from left , pause and lay 
flowers at feet of the Queen , saying\ : 

Long live our Queen ! 

[They take station to right of Queen] 

Queen [rises as last child reaches place in line ] 

The dear flowers, a sweet gentle people, 

Deserve your honor far more than your Queen; 
Bearing God’s message everywhere 
Even to far places unseen. 

Far better to be crowned beneath a green tree 
Than in a castle with many towers. 

Better than being Queen of a nation 
’T is to be Queen of the flowers. 

[Queen, followed by her escort and the rest of the children, passes 
on stage] 


THE TREES 


The Oak Tree 


For Five Boys 


I am the oak tree. 

For years I have stood. 
Every one knows me 
As “ King of the Wood.” 

[Holds out picture or branch] 

The Cedar 


I am the cedar tree. 

In winter my fruit you ’ll see_ 

Dollies and sleds and toys ! 

Oh! how the dear children love me! 
[Presents picture or bough] 


PIECES FOR SPECIAL DAYS 


The Pine 

I am the pine tree, 

As proud as can be 
Of needles so fine 
That grow upon me. 

[Presents bough or picture] 

The Chestnut 

I am the chestnut tree. 

Come look under me 
Late in the autumn 
And brown nuts you ’ll see. 

[Presents picture or bough] 

The Willow 

I am the willow tree. 

Look at my pussies now. 

If you listen carefully, 

You’ll hear them all “meow.” 

[Presents picture or pussy-willows] 

FIVE GUESSES 

For Five Children 

First Child 

Caw! caw! caw! caw! caw! 

Who’s up early in the morn ? 

Caw! caw ! caw! caw! caw! 

Guess who steals the farmer’s corn? 

Second 

Who ? who ? who ? who ? who ? 

Who wakes up at night ? 

Who ? who ? who ? who ? who ? 

And always sleeps in the light? 


78 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


Third 

Bob-white! Bob! Bob-white! 

You hear me when the sun has set. 
Bob-white! Bob! Bob-white! 

And at sunrise hear me yet. 

Fourth 

Coo! coo! coo! coo! coo! 

Six fine eggs in my nest. 

Coo! coo! coo! coo ! coo! 

I sing as I on them rest. 

Fifth 

Tapety, tap! tap! tap! 

Away high up in the tree. 

Tapety, tap ! tap ! tap ! 

Who of the children here know me? 

THE MONTHS 

For Twelve Children 

January [carries a string of bells~\ 

I am January. Listen and you will hear 
My bells chime a welcome to the New Year. 

February [carries a valentine~\ 

I am February, the month of great men 
And valentine verses from Cupid’s swift pen. 

March [carries bellows ] 

I am the month of March. My bellows can b 
A wind that will find you wherever you go. 


PIECES FOR SPECIAL DAYS 


79 


April [carries a watering-pot ] 

I’m showery April. With sunshine and rain 
I coax all the flowers to blossom again. 

May [carries a bunch of small flowers — may be arti¬ 
ficial ] 

I am the month of May, the last of the spring. 
Dainty little flowers and fair days I bring. 

June [carries a few roses~\ 

I’m the month of roses, strawberries and cream. 
In cold winter weather, of June you will dream. 

July [carrying a fire-cracker ] 

And I am warm July, the month for the boys, 

As my Fourth gives excuse for plenty of noise. 

August [carries tin pail and shovel~\ 

In August you ’re digging the sand at the shore 
And wishing that summer would never be o ’er. 

September [carries books in strap ] 

I’m bright September. With book and strap 
The children are waiting the school-bell’s first 
tap. 

October [holds handful of nuts~\ 

Bright are October’s days, red and gold her 
trees; 

Ripened nuts are falling, loosened by the breeze. 


80 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


November [at end of recitation , shows picture of tur - 
hey\ 

I am dark November. My clouds fill the sky, 
But the bright faces tell Thanksgiving is nigh. 

December [dressed as Santa Claus ] 

Cold December am I, last month of the year; 

I bring Merry Christmas, with love and good 
cheer. 


PIECES ON NATURE 


BUTTERCUPS 

There isn’t a bit of butter in a single buttercup! 
Do you suppose the fairies have eaten the butter up 

[kittle girl holds bouquet of buttercups] 

A LITTLE ARTIST 

I make pictures in the leaves of the trees, 

And in the clouds up in the sky. 

I wish I could draw with my fingers 
As well as I can with my eye. 

WHIP-POOR-WILL 

A horrid, cruel little boy 
Lives near us on the hill; 

In the evening he keeps shouting, 

46 Whip poor Will! Whip poor Will! 

KATY-DID 

A very naughty little girl 
Is in our garden hid. 

She never owns she’s naughty, 

But sings out, 44 Katy-did.” 



82 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


THE DAISY 

[Small girl holding daisy] 

Of course the rose is sweeter, 

And the lily is fair and tall; 

But for telling fortunes, 

The daisy is the best of all. 

AUTUMN 

The leaves are turning yellow, 

And the nuts are on the tree; 

If there wasn’t any school, 

Autumn would just suit me. 

A BETTER PLAN 

The snow always comes in winter, 
When it’s too cold to be out to play. 

I think, if snow came in summer, 

It would be a much nicer way. 

WOOL PREFERRED 

Mother says snow is a blanket 
O ’er the flowers spread; 

But I am glad a different kind, 
Covers me in bed. 

AIRSHIPS 

They say that airships are new things, 
And even now are rare; 

But, each fall, I see a million 
Come floating through the air. 


PIECES ON NATURE 


83 


Bright red and yellow and brown ones, 
Set sailing from the trees, 

A great splendid host of airships, 
Comes floating on the breeze. 


JACK FROST’S FRIENDS 

The big trees are swaying, 

And their leaves are falling; 
The soft breezes to the south, 
The wee birds are calling. 

They’re afraid of Jack Frost, 
With his winds and snows; 
But we children love him, 

As the good old man knows. 


A PLAN FOR THE WINTER 

I’m fond of sunshine and flowers; 

I don’t like the cold and snow, 

To have to stay indoors so much, 
And wrap up wherever I go. 

I wish I could be like the bears — 
Into a hollow tree I’d crawl 
And then, until Spring came around, 
You w r ould never see me at all. 


84 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


JEWELS 

A million little fairies, 

Dancing- on the breeze, 

Hung a million diamonds, 

On the grass and trees. 

A million little sunbeams, 

Came along that way, 

Saw the lovely diamonds, 

And took them all away. 

TOM’S CHOICE 

I understand that Jack Frost, 

Was about last night, 

That he hung up icicles 

And made the ground white. 

Of course, if he likes his job, 

Not a word need be said; 

But I should much rather be 
In my nice, warm bed. 

A SONG OF SUMMER 

The little birdies have all learned a new song, 

And the soft wind murmurs the tune, 

While the flowers keep time with their nodding 
heads — 

’T is the song of summer and June. 


PIECES ON NATURE 


85 


THE AWAKENING 

Beneath the ground the flowers have been sleeping, 
Safely, all winter, not one of them peeping, 

But, now, the rains whisper, the sun shines so bright, 
They push off their covers and climb to the light. 

SPRING-TIME 

Don’t tell me about pretty flowers, 

And birdies on the wing; 

It’s when mamma begins house-cleaning 
That 1 know it’s spring. 

SPRING SUITS 

The trees have on their pretty new dresses, 

The grasses have theirs, too. 

Mother Nature must have been dress-making, 

All the long winter through. 

THE WINDS 

Oh! what does the w-ind say, 

Howding so loudly, 

While flowers in their beds 
Still sleep so soundly? 

He says, “ Come down,” 

To the old dead leaves, 

“You never can stand 

My strong March breeze.” 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


A SWEET MESSAGE 

Our old friend “ Jack ” is in the pulpit, 
And “ Sweet William ” is up in the bed, 

While gay, saucy “ Daffy-down-dilly ” 

Is shaking her golden head. 

The flower family are at home, 

And would like to have you call. 

They are sending an invitation 
To every one, great and small. 

A SHOWER 

The little clouds all went to play 
Upon the sky-blue lawn, 

Their fleecy dresses tinted 
With the colors of the dawn. 

But, soon, their pretty dresses, 

Changed to a homely gray, 

And the saddened little cloudlets, 

All wept themselves away. 

SIGNS OF SPRING 

Little “ Jack-in-the-pulpit ” 

Has begun preaching now, 

And “ Lily-of-the-valley ” 

Doth gracefully bow. 


PIECES ON NATURE 


87 


The blue-bells all are ringing 
Their first soft call to praise. 
Again God’s lovely flowers 
Make Sabbath all the days. 


A SPRING THOUGHT 

I wonder why the wee, tender flowers, 

Come right after the snow. 

I’m sure it would seem the big strong ones 
Would be the first to grow. 

I guess it must be that the baby flowers, 
Never think of having a fear. 

And it’s because they trust God, He sends these 
The first of them all, every year. 


CONTRASTS 

The flowers have new dresses, 
Whenever it comes spring. 

They never must wear “ last year’s ” 
Nor an old “made-over” thing. 

But then they stay all winter, 

Out alone in the cold; 

So I s’pose there are worse things, 
Than dresses that are old. 


88 


BEST PRIMARY RECITATIONS 


TED’S MISTAKE 

Papa fixed the flower-beds, 

Mamma planted the seeds, 

And said I could have a nickel, 

If I would pull the w r eeds. 

Just as soon as they came up, 

I worked and worked till noon, 

When papa said, “ He’s pulled the plants 
My son, you worked too soon.” 
















1 




•I 























BEST BOOKS AND HELPS FOR TEACHERS 

--OF ALL GRADES- 

Morning Exercises for All the Year. By Joseph C. Sindelar, author 
of the “Nixie Bunny” books, etc. Contains over 300 exercises, 
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BECKLEY-CARDY CO. 


Publishers 


CHICAGO 






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. . - . - By Joseph C. Sindelar—- .r -— 

. NIXIE BUNNY IN MANNERS-LAND 
A Rabbit Story of Good Manners 

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BECKLEY-CARDY CO. Educational Publishers CHICAGO 






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BECKLEY-CARDY CO. Educational Publishers CHICAGO 






MORNING EXERCISES FOR ALL THE YEAR 

-A DAY BOOK FOR TEACHERS-- 

By Joseph C. Sindelar 
Author of Nixie Bunny in Manners-Land, 

Nixie Bunny in Workaday-Land, etc. 

This is a new work—just published—and the only really complete 
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THE BEST CHRISTMAS BOOK 

Edited by Joseph C. Sindelar 

There is nothing better or newer published in the way of Christ¬ 
mas entertainments. The material contained in this book is fresh 
and original, much of it having been written specially by Marie 
Irish, Harriette Wilbur, and Tlios. B. Weaver. There is a wealth of 
new ideas, and a complete program for everyone. It is positively the 
“Best” book of Christmas entertainment exercises published. Ar¬ 
ranged according to grades. 

The following list of classified contents will show the variety and 
scope of the work. Contents: 82 recitations, 36 quotations, 4 mono¬ 

logues and readings, 10 dialogues, exercises and plays, 7 fancy drills 
and marches, 4 acrostics and motion songs, 3 tableaux, 4 pantomimes 
and pantomimed songs, 9 songs with music, 8 songs of new words 
to old tunes, 14 facts regarding Christmas and Christmas customs 
in other lands. 

Illustrated. 192 pages. Paper. Price, 30 cents 


BECKLEY-CARDY CO. Educational Publishers CHICAGO 







LANGUAGE GAMES FOR ALL GRADES 

-By Alhambra G. Deming--. 

Principal Washington School, Winona, Minn. 

With Introduction by J. N. Adee, Supt. of Schools, Johnstown, Pa. 

Designed to establish the habit of correct speech and to increase 
the child’s vocabulary. The book contains thirty language games, 
teaching the correct use of troublesome words and forms of expres¬ 
sion in a pleasant way, and which will serve to eliminate the common 
errors in grammar of oral and written speech among pupils. In his 
introduction Superintendent Adee says: “The use of correct English 
is a habit. 'To get a habit thoroughly rooted in a child’s life takes 
careful drill and constant repetition. Children like to repeat; they 
enjoy doing and saying things over and over again. There are only 
twenty or thirty grammatical errors that persistently occur, and 
if we can put the correct expression for these errors in the form 
of a game, we will have an excellent motive to get these correct 
forms frequently repeated and their use a fixed habit on the part 
of the pupils. This is the purpose of this little book, Language 
Games for All Giades.” It is a volume that will be welcomed by all 
progressive teachers. 

90 pages. Cloth. Price, 40 cents 

CARDS TO ACCOMPANY LANGUAGE GAMES FOR ALL GRADES 

Fifty-three cards, size 4% x 6% inches, for pupils’ use. 

Price, per set, 25 cents 

EASY THINGS TO DRAW 

By D. R. Augsburg 

Prepared particularly as an aid to teachers who lack training in 
drawing, or who may be in need of drawings made in the simplest 
possible way—often with but a few strokes of the crayon or pencil. 
Contains 203 drawings w T hich may be easily transferred to the black¬ 
board to illustrate lessons on plants, animals, history, geography, 
etc. They will also furnish subjects for stories. Every principle of 
drawing is presented. 

77 large pages. Paper. Price, 30 cents 

BEST PRIMARY SONGS 

By Amos M. Kellogg 

A collection of nearly sixty songs, suitable for primary and 
intermediate grades, and for ungraded schools. There are morning 
and welcome songs, nature songs, marching and motion pieces, social 
and ethical songs, farewell and closing sentiments, etc. The words 
have been carefully chosen and the music is attractive and simple. 

48 pages. Paper. Price, 15 cents; per dozen, $ 1.50 


BECKLEY-CARDY CO. Educational Publishers CHICAGO 







SUPPLEMENTARY READERS 

-— FOR ALL GRADES -- 

BOW-WOW AND MEW-MEW 

By Georgiana M. Craik. Edited by Joseph C. Sindelar 

The story of a young dog and cat, and one of the few books for 
beginners in reading that may be classed as literature. The story, 
the style, and the moral are all good. 

32 illustrations in colors. 95 pages. Cloth. Price, 30 cents 

THE NIXIE BUNNY BOOKS 

By Joseph C. Sindelar 

Nixie Bunny in Manners-Land—A Rabbit Story of Good Manners 
Nixie Bunny in Workaday-Land—A Rabbit Story of the Occupations 
Nixie Bunny in Holiday-Land—A Rabbit Story of the Holidays 

The Nixie Bunny Books have been read by over 75,000 children 
in two years. They are unsurpassed in popularity by any children’s 
books ever published. Adopted as supplementary readers in the 
second and third grades by hundreds of towns and cities all over 
the country, including Chicago, Pittsburgh, Rochester, Worcester 
(Mass.), etc. Se’ected by fourteen states for reading circle and 
school library purposes. They are interestingly written, attractively 
illustrated, pedagogically arranged, well graded, and teach enough of 
value to pay for the time spent in their reading. Each book has 144 
pages, with from 64 to 90 illustrations in colors. Cloth. Price, 
each, 40 cents. 

THE PROGRESSIVE SCHOOL CLASSICS 

A new series of reading books, which offers the highest class of 
literature for all grades at very small cost. No other series at so low 
a price contains the valuable features of this series, namely: accurate 
and authentic texts, notes and numbered lines for reference, portraits, 
biographical sketches, illustrations, new type, good paper and bind¬ 
ing, and convenient size. 

Bow-Bow and Mew-Mew—Craik—Grades 1-2—95 pages (12 cents) 
Peter Rabbit and Other Tales—Grades 2-3 
The King of the Golden River—Ruskin—Grades 4-6 
Rip Van Winkle and the Author’s Account of Himself—Irving— 
Grades 5-8 

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow—Irving—Grades 5-8 

Thanatopsis, Sella and Other Poems—Bryant—Grades 5-8 

The Courtship of Miles Standish—Longfellow—Grades 6-8 

The Pied Piper of Hamelin and Other Poems—Browning—Grades 6-8 

Evangeline—Longfellow—Grades 6-8 

The Great Stone Face—Hawthorne—Grades 6-8 

The Man Without a Country—Hale—Grades 6-8 

Snow-Bound and Other Poems—Whittier—Grades 6-8 

Enoch Arden—Tennyson—Grades 6-H. S. 

The Vision of Sir Launfal and Other Poems—Lowell—Grades 6-H. S. 
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner—Coleridge—Grades 7-H. S. 

The Cotter’s Saturday Night and Other Poems—Burns—Grades 7-H. S. 
The Deserted Village (Goldsmith) and Elegy—Gray—Grades 7-H. S. 

Price, per copy, 5 cents, postpaid, unless otherwise mentioned 

128-page illustrated Catalogue of Books mailed upon request 


BECKLEY-CARDY CO. 


Publishers 


CHICAGO 


















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